WNBA Chicago Sky

Sky down Fever

June 5, 2015 - Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA)
Chicago Sky News Release


ROSEMONT- On Friday night, the reigning Eastern Conference Champion Chicago Sky kicked off their 10th Anniversary season, defeating the Indiana Fever 95-72 at Allstate Arena in front of 8,123 fans, setting a new attendance record for a Sky season opener. Chicago has now won four consecutive season openers dating back to 2012. Elena Delle Donne led the Sky with 31 points, eight rebounds and four blocks.

Prior to the game, the Sky unveiled a banner commemorating their 2014 Eastern Conference Championship and each fan in attendance received a mini-replica of the championship banner. The game also marked the first contest in a Sky uniform for five players on the team's roster, including Chicago native and two-time WNBA Champion Cappie Pondexter. It was an emotional night for Pondexter, as she was playing in front of her hometown for the first time as a member of the Sky.

"I know I can score at will. I've proven that, but that's not why I'm here," said Pondexter. "I'm here to help this team win a championship."

Much to the delight of the record crowd, Chicago got off to a quick start, pouring in 29 points in the first quarter. Delle Donne, a 2014 WNBA All-Star, was Chicago's catalyst in the first quarter, scoring six points and adding two blocks. Missing from action was Indiana's own 2014 WNBA All-Star Tamika Catchings, who did not play due to a knee injury.

The Fever began the second quarter on an 11-4 run, fueled by Marissa Coleman who would finish the game with 16 points to lead all Indiana scorers. Chicago quickly stifled the Fever's run, however, behind a balanced offensive attack directed by Courtney Vandersloot. The Sky led 51-38 at intermission, tying their 2014 season high for points scored in a first half.

Chicago continued their offensive prowess in the second half, and maintained a sizeable advantage throughout, eventually cruising to a 95-72 victory in which every player on the Sky roster scored at least two points.

Delle Donne dominated the contest, finishing with 31 points and eight rebounds while shooting an impressive 11-for-20 from the field and 9-for-10 from the free throw line.

"The ball movement, the defense; that's what made this game so incredible," said Delle Donne. "You love seeing that type of defense and that type of communication this early on."

Chicago will look to build off the momentum gained tonight as they travel to Tulsa tomorrow to take on the Shock at 7:00 pm CT at the BOK Center. The Sky will play their next five games on the road, before returning home to Allstate Arena on June 24th to battle the Atlanta Dream at 11:30 am CT. To purchase tickets call 866.SKY.WNBA or visit CHICAGOSKY.NET.

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